Through teaching, research, and service, we enrich our communities and empower ISU students to think critically and creatively, develop expert communication and persuasion skills, and promote media literacy.
Who We Are
The Department of Communication, Media, and Persuasion is the only program in the Mountain West to combine the theoretical and interpersonal focus of a communication arts department with the skills and media focus of mass communication department. This combination allows us to offer a dynamic curriculum to everyone who studies in our program - providing them a leg up over the competition.
Our faculty embody this dynamism, bringing together diverse experiences and viewpoints both within and outside of the classroom. Areas of specialization include advertising education; crisis communication; image repair; media psychology; narrative; social media and social movements; sport communication and PR; rhetorical analysis and criticism; and visual rhetoric and semiotics.
Our Mission
Through teaching, research, and service, we enrich our communities and empower ISU students to think critically and creatively, develop expert communication and persuasion skills, and promote media literacy.
Ready to ROAR with us?! Check out our programs.
Learning Outcomes
The Department of Communication, Media, and Persuasion administers a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with emphases in Corporate Communication; Rhetoric, Media, and Social Change; Visual Communication; and Multi-Platform Journalism; as well as minors in Public Relations/Advertising, Visual Media, Journalism, Communication, and Advocacy.
The primary objectives related to the Bachelor of Arts program in Communication are to assist all students in developing the following:
- The ability to engage in critical thinking.
- The ability to communicate effectively in writing.
- The ability to communicate effectively through oral presentation.
- The ability to engage in effective applied problem-solving for personal and professional goals.
- The ability to construct and evaluate strategic verbal and visual messages.
- The ability to use effective information research strategies.
- An understanding of the role of communication in interpersonal, group/team, corporate, political, cultural, mediated, and historical contexts.
- Knowledge and skill useful to graduates' professional success.
- Knowledge and skill applicable to graduates' personal lives.
Effective communication is vital to successful social interaction and depends upon an adequate breadth of knowledge. The Communication, Media, and Persuasion curriculum program offerings emphasize the importance of a strong liberal arts education as well as relevant technical skill development in preparing students for communication careers and for participation as members of a diverse global society.
Corporate Communication
- Choose from tracks in Advertising, Leadership, and Public Relations.
- Prepare for a range of career opportunities in leadership, advertising, and public relations fields.
- Gain skills for positions such as communications director, copywriter, digital advertising specialist, publicist, event coordinator, and more.
Multiplatform Journalism
- Develop real-world experience in crafting articles, stories, and video narratives on important issues.
- Acquire skills for versatile roles in the multi-skilled workforce.
- Find career opportunities as a news editor, television anchor/reporter, magazine writer, sports broadcaster, and more.
Rhetoric, Media, and Social Change
- Learn to analyze and create persuasive messages, speeches, and arguments.
- Prepare for roles as a spokesperson, public affairs specialist, lobbyist, policy analyst, grant writer, development officer, and more.
- Explore career paths in advocacy groups, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and political campaigns.
Social Media & Digital Communication
- Choose a Social Media and Digital Communication emphasis.
- Combine content creation, storytelling, and branding with social media marketing and data analytics.
- Gain skills in managing social media campaigns, making data-driven decisions, and driving engagement.
- Pursue careers as social media managers, digital designers, content creators, consultants, and brand ambassadors.
Visual Communication
- Choose from tracks in graphic Design or Photo-Video.
- Develop skills for careers in advertising, photography, videography, web design, and more.
- Explore roles such as graphic designer, videographer, multimedia journalist, and creative director.
Minors
- Enhance your major with minors in advertising/public relations, communication, journalism, visual media, film studies, advocacy, or social media.
- Expand your skill set and broaden your career options.
- Customize your education to align with your interests and goals.
We are thrilled to offer a dynamic range of programs and opportunities for students interested in communication, media studies, and persuasion techniques. Our department is dedicated to providing a stimulating learning environment and preparing students for success in the ever-evolving field of communication. These programs are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel in today's fast-paced media landscape.
Our offerings include
- Corporate Communication
- Multiplatform Journalism
- Rhetoric, Media, and Social Change
- Social Media and Digital Communication
- Visual Communication
We take pride in our faculty, who are incredible scholars and practitioners in the field of communication. With their expertise, we offer a diverse and customizable curriculum that covers a wide range of topics. Our smaller program size allows for personalized guidance and hands-on experience, ensuring that you receive the support and mentorship needed to thrive. We are committed to providing engaging coursework that reflects the latest trends and developments in the field.
Life-Changing Opportunities
"My time with NSAC has been life changing. My work with this team has been the most valuable time in my college education, and the things we have accomplished have prepared me to move into the professional world with confidence."
Shayla Rowe | CMP Graphic Design Major | Class of 2023 | NSAC participant 2023
Practical Experience and Preparation for Success
In addition to rigorous coursework, we provide numerous opportunities for practical experience. As a student in our department, you can participate in the Career Path Internship Program, which allows you to earn money while honing your skills in areas such as advertising, graphic design, and video production. You can also join our nationally award-winning debate team or advertising competition team and gain hands-on experience filming live sports events for ESPN+ on our sports film crew. We understand the importance of real-world experience in preparing students for success in the communication industry.
At Idaho State University, we understand the importance of creativity, innovation, and relevance in the field of communication. Our strategically integrated curriculum, engaging coursework, and supportive instruction ensure that you are well-prepared for lifelong success in the communication industry. We aim to develop critical communication skills and foster a broad understanding of the role of communication in today's global society.
Join us at the Department of Communication, Media, and Persuasion at Idaho State University, where endless possibilities await you. Explore the exciting world of communication education and discover the diverse career opportunities that await you in media and public relations. From exploring strategic persuasion techniques to conducting digital media and social influence research, our department offers a stimulating environment for growth and exploration. We look forward to welcoming you to our department and helping you embark on a rewarding journey in the field of communication.